Layered Stripes

The secret to piling them on without going overboard? Pairing stripes with different scales and styles (like narrow pinstripes and more abstract designs), and limiting the palette. Here, stylist Melanie Molesworth stayed true to blues, ranging from slate to indigo.

3 of 20Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn

Nautical & Nice

This kitchen’s boat-like style comes straight from its proximity to the water. The mahogany countertops were sealed with marine varnish, consistent with yacht design. Brushed-nickel hardware modeled after boat cleats accents the refrigerator and freezer.

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4 of 20Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn

Built In

Bold stripes and playful prints puts a fun spin on the nautical theme. The built-in daybed expands this home’s yacht-like appeal and provides the perfect sleeping spot for afternoon naps or overnight guests. The extra height of this daybed creates the bunk feel of first-mate sleeping quarters.

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5 of 20William Abranowicz

Coastal Americana

This upbeat interior aims to bring a smile with its bold patterns and classic color scheme. We love the vintage sailboat photographs and ocean-themed touches that give a subtle sea vibe to the traditional colonial style.

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6 of 20Jean Allsopp

Making Waves

You can call attention to a room's architectural elements by painting trim and molding a deep navy. Wake up the floor by painting a nautical motif or stripes of alternating shades of blue.

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7 of 20Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn

Instant Update

Dress up outdoor furniture with colors of sea and sky to pack a nautical punch.

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8 of 20Photo: Tria Giovan

Country Classic

Two country favorites—painted floors and checked wallpaper—come together to create an all-American kitchen complete with a butcher-block island and hanging copper cookware. Whimsical coastal motifs stenciled on the floor ensures the room is more nautical than pastoral.

All Aboard Style

Character Building

Everyday items hung in a series create a graphic focal point of architecture-free walls. Baskets, oars, shutters, and even wheels double as art.

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11 of 20Jean Allsopp

Summertime Blues

A flat woven rug in traditional blue-and-white looks just right beneath this master bedroom’s coordinating bed and linens. Overhead, an antique canvas kayak reminds homeowners that the water is only steps away.

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12 of 20Roger Davies

Ship Shaped

This casual dining area features a freestanding custom replica of a ship’s table surrounded by banquette seating. A retro-nautical light fixture hangs overhead.

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13 of 20Lisa Romerein

Sea Reflection

Elegant water-resistant fabrics, pillows, and blankets inspire connection with the sea and can handle this cottage’s heavy traffic.

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14 of 20Lisa Romerein

Smart Use of Space

Floating shelves for nightstands and wall sconces in place of bulky table lamps help accommodate the bedroom’s pint-size space. Billowing fabrics overhead soften the lines of the ceiling and walls, while adding more texture and interest plus the illusion of extra height.

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15 of 20Lisa Romerein

Personal Touch

The homeowners dubbed their open living and dining space “The Boathouse” after outfitting it with nautical details.

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16 of 20Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn

On Deck

The homeowners dubbed their open living and dining space “The Boathouse” after outfitting it with nautical details.

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17 of 20Kindra Clineff

Sailcloth Chic

A custom slipcover constructed from handmade recycled sails makes a nautical statement and preserves their heritage.

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18 of 20Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn

Ocean Lining

Inside this wood-and-glass conservatory just above the high tide line, built-in furnishings and mahogany walls wrap the tiny space, creating the sense of being on a yacht.